More openness, not more limits: UAE for open skies, open markets

Calling for ‘more openness, not more limits’, UAE Minister of Economy, Sultan Al Mansoori said the UAE will oppose new efforts to limit competition and impose new restrictions on international air services.

"I come here tonight with a clear and simple message – let’s keep Open Skies on course.  For 40 years, barriers and restrictions for airlines have come down.  This is not the time to turn back," said Minister Al Mansoori. "The UAE is ready to join with the US and EU to help lead a new effort toward even greater liberalisation in international air transport.  Together, we can bring even more benefits to travellers and shippers than ever before."

In remarks at an event hosted on the sidelines of the Dubai Air Show by the US-UAE Business Council and the Aerospace Industries Association, Minister Al Mansoori also made clear that the UAE will actively resist efforts to impose new government restrictions that would limit competition.

"UAE airlines and the UAE Government have fully met all of the obligations and responsibilities under Open Skies Agreements. And In the interests of global consumers and fair competition, the UAE Government will oppose new efforts to restrict, limit or control air services."

Al Mansoori noted that the next generation of long-range aircraft was a ‘game changer’ for the UAE’s international airlines. These aircraft, along with the UAE’s geographic advantage and rise as a global business centre, allowed UAE air carriers to connect the world’s fastest growing markets in Asia, Africa and the Indian subcontinent with each other and to the US, Europe and South America.

The minister highlighted the strength of the bilateral trade relationship, noting that the UAE is the largest export market for US goods in the Middle East for six years running, with 2014 bilateral trade totaling approximately $24 billion ($22 billion of which were US exports to the UAE).

He also emphasised the significant economic impact of the UAE-US bilateral aviation relationship, which exceeds over $5 billion annually in the commercial and military sectors. Combined, the UAE’s airlines are the single largest customer for Boeing Aircraft.

"The UAE-US trade story is a fantastic success story for both of our countries.  UAE-US trade is booming.  Cross-border investment is expanding.  Bilateral business partnerships are increasing.  And in no sector is all of this more true than in aviation and aerospace," said Al Mansoori.

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.